Mountain Lion

Mountain Lion & Bobcat

Bobcats and mountain lions are common in Rocky Mountain National Park, Roosevelt and Arapaho National Forests and neighboring communities like Estes Park and Grand Lake - but rarely seen.

The mountain lion is an important part of the park ecosystem, helping to keep deer and other prey populations in check.

Lion attacks are rare but possible. Here's the Park's advice if you meet a mountain lion:

"Never approach a mountain lion especially one that is feeding or with kittens.

Most mountain lions will try to avoid confrontation.

Always give them a way to escape.

Don't run. Stay calm. Hold your ground or back away slowly.

Face the lion and stand upright.

Do all you can to appear larger. Grab a stick. Raise your arms.

If you have small children with you, pick them up.

If the lion behaves aggressively, wave your arms, shout and throw objects at it. The goal is to convince it that you are not prey and may be dangerous yourself.

If attacked, fight back!

Generally, mountain lions are calm, quiet, and elusive. The chance of being attacked by a mountain lion is quite low compared to many other natural hazards. There is, for example, a far greater risk of being struck by lightning than being attacked by a mountain lion.